The sixth generation of BMW’s highest selling car, 3 Series has finally arrived in India, and with a bang. BMW has confirmed that they have received more than 500 bookings for their all new 3 Series F30 which is launched with a base price of Rs 28.90 lacs. Offered in two exclusive designs – Sport Line and Luxury Line, the vehicle reflects its ground-breaking technology, eclectic design and unlimited zeal and comes at a time when BMW is competing with the likes of Audi for a top spot in the luxury car segment.

BMW 3 Series was launched by none other than master blaster Sachin Tendulkar, who was one of the first people to experience and comment on the new BMW 3 Series in London earlier this month. Sachin has always been a BMW fan. back in 1993, at an age of 20, he was an upcoming cricket star, when all he could afford was a second hand BMW. Today, at 39, well into his career and one of the richest cricketers in the world, Sachin Tendulkar relived this moment when he spoke at the launch of this new 3 series in London. He has now moved way up the ladder to success and on to BMW X5 and M5 which he prefers to drive around himself with his driver taking a back seat.

Since start of this year Audi has exceeded BMW sales by just 457 units. However spirits are not dampened as BMW is confident of their success over Audi with launch of the new 3 Series. BMW expects to maintain their No 1 position in the Indian luxury car market, a position which they have held since 2009.

The Ultimate 3: Introduced in the Luxury and Sport Line, the all-new BMW 3 Series sets a new dimension in dynamism and elegance.

Engineered with passion, sixth-generation of the world’s most successful premium sedan combines benchmark design and pioneering technology with revolutionary performance and unmatched efficiency.

Mumbai. The all-new BMW 3 Series sedan was launched today in India. The sixth generation of the world’s most successful premium sedan was unveiled by Mr. Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary sportsman, at an exclusive launch event.

The all-new BMW 3 Series is produced (CKD – Completely Knocked Down) at BMW Plant Chennai and the deliveries start at BMW dealerships across India from July 2012 onwards.

Dr. Andreas Schaaf, President, BMW Group India said, “The all-new BMW 3 Series is a vehicle that has an unbeatable profile and is born from pioneering technology, a beautiful design and a lot of passion. In addition to the powerful performance and increased efficiency, the all-new BMW 3 Series offers unparalleled comfort and space. Since its inception, the BMW 3 Series has been the undisputable leader in its segment and there is no doubt that the sixth-generation of the BMW 3 Series will surpass the magnificent success that its predecessors received. The new BMW 3 Series will establish a new benchmark in the Indian luxury car segment and contribute to BMW’s winning streak in India.”

The all-new BMW 3 Series is available in two exclusive design schemes – Sport Line and Luxury Line. Sport Line celebrates the rush of adrenaline with sporty styling and interiors while Luxury Line indulges you to move in style with elegant contours and luxurious features. The all-new BMW 3 Series exhibits versatility that makes it unique by offering customers a choice of vehicle that expresses who they are and conforms to their personal preferences and lifestyle.

The all-new BMW 3 Series is available in a diesel (BMW 320d) and petrol variant (BMW 328i). The all India ex-showroom prices are as follows –

Rooted in history, moving forward in design – the all-new BMW 3 Series receives a fresh and contemporary face that interprets the iconic features of classic BMW design in a new way. The all-new BMW 3 Series is the first model to feature the striking new design language; with classic BMW double round headlights, now topped off by ‘eyebrows’, reaching the edge of the kidney grille. The wide stance and striking corona rings in headlights give extra intensity to the classic BMW focused look and a more impressive on-road presence. But it is the sum of all details – the short overhangs, the long wheelbase, the coupe-like roofline and the distinctive side creases – that creates the exemplary sporting appeal.

The larger dimensions of the all-new BMW 3 Series (length +93 mm, wheelbase +50 mm) mean that the rear seat passengers can now enjoy extra legroom. Behind the fully contoured front seats, 14 mm of additional knee room and 8 mm of extra headroom further enhance the passenger’s comfort. The volume of the luggage compartment has been increased by 20 litres to a total of 480 litres.

The cockpit is angled towards the driver by seven degrees and puts all the important controls within easy reach to provide a sense of personal control and comfort. Seats in the all-new BMW 3 Series are electrically adjustable on both the driver and front seat passenger sides.

The BMW iDrive (the on-board Driver Information System) with 6.5 inch high-resolution display and BMW Radio Professional are featured as standard in the all-new BMW 3 Series. BMW Navigation Professional (integrated Global Positioning System – GPS), with an 8.8-inch high-resolution display and rear-view camera debut in the all-new BMW 320d Luxury Plus and all-new BMW 328i Sport Line. The full-color Head-Up Display in the all-new BMW 328i Sport Line projects driving information directly into the driver’s field of vision without diverting driver’s attention from the road ahead.

An athlete in top condition, the all-new BMW 3 Series, is always ready to deliver a first class performance. With the new powerful engines and impressive efficiency, its sporting genes are apparent on every road, every mile of the way. The all-new BMW 328i accelerates from 0-100 km/hr in 6.1 seconds with a top speed of 250 km/hr and the all-new BMW 320d accelerates from 0-100 km/hr in 7.6 seconds with a top speed of 235 km/hr. BMW EfficientDynamics doubles the Sheer Driving Pleasure of the all-new BMW 3 Series with features such as Auto Start-Stop, ECO PRO mode, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Intelligent Lightweight Construction, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and many other innovative technologies. The fact that the all-new BMW 3 Series is also very fuel efficient makes it an outstanding vehicle, the best in its class.

All models of the all-new BMW 3 Series also feature the new ECO PRO mode as standard, enabling efficient driving and reduced fuel consumption. Using the Driving Experience Control switch, the driver is able to choose between different driving modes to suit the driving conditions. (ECO PRO, Comfort, Sport and Sport+). *Sports+ available only in the new BMW 328i Sport Line.

The new eight-speed automatic transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gear shifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency. The all-new BMW 328i Sport Line also features Shift Paddles for facilitating more convenient manual gear shifts.

Design.
All in all, the innovative body structure and intelligent lightweight design concept of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan ensure that it is now larger and safer, but – depending on the engine specified – also lighter. The dynamic proportions and athletic overall impression of the new 3 Series bring the sporting character of this hugely successful model into even sharper focus.
The BMW 3 Series Sedan is an iconic figure in the sports sedan segment and over the years has come to symbolize the aesthetic appeal, dynamics and sporting capability of BMW. With its dynamic lines and athletic overall presence, the sixth generation of the world’s best-selling premium vehicle highlights the sporting character of the brand’s mid-size model. Although the new BMW 3 Series has grown moderately in all dimensions compared to its predecessor, it retains a perfect balance of sportiness and elegance. As in previous generations, the sedan’s dynamic proportions are shaped by the sweeping hood, short front overhang, long wheelbase and set-back greenhouse typical of BMW.

Striking face with precise contours and multi-faceted surfaces. The wedge shape of the new 3 Series’ silhouette and its wider track
underline the sporting appearance of the new BMW. By clearly accentuating the width of the car, the multi-faceted surfaces of the expressive front fascia give the BMW 3 Series a more athletic face than ever. A wide, squat interpretation of the upright, slightly forward-slanting BMW kidney grille emphasizes the assured presence of the new BMW 3 Series. LED accent lights positioned like eyebrows above the striking twin headlights with corona rings (if xenon headlights are specified) lend an extra intensity to the classic BMW focused look. Clearly defined headlight surrounds now extend up to the frame of the kidney grille, merging the headlights and grille of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan into a single stylistic unit and adding further emphasis to the car’s broad-set stance. The BMW 3 Series replaces the central air intake of its predecessor with two larger intakes, which are positioned underneath the headlights to the outer edges of the front fascia and add extra depth to the car’s sporty styling. On the far left and right of the main ducts are small vertical intakes which help create the “Air Curtain”. This new technology improves air flow around the front wheels, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency and reducing fuel consumption at higher speeds.

The closely spaced, squat openings of the kidney grille, with their eye-catching surrounds, form the most prominent element of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan’s front design. This is also where the precise lines of the heavily contoured hood, spawned by the roof pillars and flowing over the full length of the hood, come together on the their journey towards the road. The result is a front that appears lower-slung, giving the BMW 3 Series a clear sporting edge when viewed head-on.

Precise lines produce a stretched silhouette and enhance the car’s dynamic impact. Powerfully taut surfaces with sweeping lines dominate the side view of the BMW
3 Series Sedan, stretching the car visually and lending extra verve to its dynamic stance. The flanks of the car are shaped by an eye-catching double character line running alongside each other. The higher character line emerges out of the low-slung nose and flows over the front wheel with an understated sweep, in a nod to the sedan’s fleetness of foot. The second character line develops lower down behind the front wheel and follows a delicately arching path towards the rear. Together, they reinforce the dynamic wedge shape of the car’s flanks. As well as providing a discreet increase in muscularity in the rear section below the character line, these styling cues also create vivid light and shade effects, which draw further attention to the car’s wide track.

The striking interpretation of the hallmark BMW Hofmeister kink at the base of the C-pillar injects the silhouette of the new 3 Series with even greater élan. Alongside it runs a fine contour line from the roof pillars into the rear deck lid, giving the roof an even lower appearance from the side. The resultant sense of sporty yet elegant lightness spreads all the way down the sedan’s sides, with the slightly rising shade line low down on the heavily contoured side skirt adding further emphasis. The large light surfaces above the side skirt serve to enhance the lightness of the car’s flank lines.

Contrasting light surfaces imbue the rear with brio and energy.
The strong horizontal lines of the rear – including rear lights in customary BMW L-shaped design positioned at the outer edges of the rear – accentuate the broad face of the wheels and wide track of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. The low-set reflectors guide the vertical lines flowing out of the greenhouse over the rear lights to the wheels, lending visual emphasis to the car’s consummate road presence. Traditional BMW 3 Series design traits include the two lines below the rear spoiler and above the bumper, which frame the rear stylistically. Richly contrasting light surfaces give the rear end of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan a fresh dynamic flair, while the interchanges between smoothly flowing surfaces, precise lines and defined edges inject brio and energy.

The interplay of surfaces and lines fills the interior with life.
The interior of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan is straight out of the BMW design handbook. The driver-focused cockpit wraps around the driver and puts all the important controls within easy reach. The cockpit is angled towards the driver by seven degrees. The ingenious layout of the front cabin incorporates the driver-focused cockpit as part of its natural design – i.e. without excluding the front passenger. The surfaces and lines flow over the instrument panel towards the front passenger side of the cabin, where they form a smooth, protective border. In the driver’s area all the lines converge on a single point behind the steering wheel and guide the eye towards the road.

The cockpit’s four circular dials (fuel gauge, speedometer, tachometer and oil temperature gauge) come with a black panel display. Positioned on the horizontally-structured instrument panel, the freestanding iDrive monitor with slim, transreflective, high-resolution display recalls the latest flatscreen televisions normally found in living rooms rather than cars.

On the driver’s side of the deliberately asymmetric center tunnel, a different trim surface and graining mark out the active driving elements of the interior, while the trim surface on the front passenger side exudes a pleasingly elegant air. Positioned centrally on the center console within easy reach of both the driver and the front passenger is the standard iDrive Controller.

More space, wide variety of storage compartments, even greater practicality.
Passengers in the rear of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan will enjoy significantly more space than in the outgoing model. The car’s larger dimensions ensure rear passengers are welcomed by 0.71 in. /18 mm of extra legroom inside the doors as they climb aboard. Behind the fully contoured front seats, 0.6 in / 15 mm of additional knee room and 0.31in. / 8 mm of extra headroom further enhance the passengers’ comfort on the road. Backrest nets offer additional accommodation for small items, reflective vests and road maps. Larger pockets in the front doors, whose lines and surfaces open up towards the instrument panel, now have space for drink bottles up to one liter in size. Added to which, two large drink holders are now integrated into the center console ahead of the gearshift lever. If desired, the cupholders can be swapped for an oddments tray, which is stored in a special area of the glove compartment when not in use. The new sedan offers 480 liters of luggage capacity, 20 liters more than the outgoing model in DIN measurement protocol. And an innovative and practical solution allows extremely convenient access inside. If the optional Comfort Access is specified, the trunk can be opened hands-free and without needing to use a key. For example, if the driver approaches his new 3 Series with both hands full, all he/she needs to do is move his/her foot around underneath the bumper to trigger the opening mechanism for the trunk lid (see also BMW ConnectedDrive).

The luggage compartment can hold as much as three golfbags, or a pram and chassis inserted over a remarkably low trunk sill that is a mere 26 inches high (66 cm). Standard securing hooks hold the items firmly in place, while a storage tray under the load compartment floor and a deep storage compartment on the left-hand side accommodate small oddments. For bulky items, the optional Through-Load includes a folding rear seat bench to allow flexible transport solutions. The 40:20:40 split rear backrests offer unbeatable versatility when you need to carry passengers and long items, such as several pairs of skis or snowboards, at the same time. Three equipment lines shine the spotlight on the car’s distinct character traits.

High-quality material combinations and unbeatable build quality underline the premium ambience of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. The materials and color concept of standard model accentuate the sporting character of the car, but a large selection of colors and upholstery variants also offer scope for various other options. From the basic matt satin silver surface treatment to the warm look of fine burr walnut wood, all trim surface options can be combined with either the leatherette or one of two leather upholstery colors.

In addition to the standard trim level, the new BMW 3 Series Sedan can now also be specified with any of three equipment lines or an M Sport Package. Customers can therefore adapt the appearance of their car to their personal lifestyle and preferences – in their own way and with eye-catching results. The Sport Line, Luxury Line and Modern Line each emphasize the different sides to the new BMW 3 Series Sedan’s character in their own individual way. The exclusive, carefully coordinated equipment features embrace both exterior design elements and the selection of materials and colors for each model. In terms of value, design coherence and expressiveness, the new BMW Lines go far beyond existing packages in the segment.

New dimensions in driving pleasure and dynamic performance: Sporty power delivery, outstanding efficiency and enhanced ride comfort.
The sixth generation BMW 3 Series sports sedan offers top-level agility and driving dynamics, and they combine all this with new levels of comfort. At the same time, there is no change to the proven basic concept comprising high-performance engines, a sporty chassis and a rigid, lightweight body. After all, over the past 35 or more years, drivers have come to expect dynamic, sporty driving enjoyment as a matter of course in a BMW 3 Series model, while powertrain and chassis technology rank as a core strength of the brand. A longitudinally mounted engine, rear-wheel drive and a balanced (50:50) weight distribution are a formula that makes the BMW 3 Series the sportiest sedan in its segment.

BMW 328i: new 4-cylinder gasoline engine with TwinPower Turbo technology sets a new benchmark for driving dynamics and efficiency.
With the launch of the new sports sedan, an ultra-modern 4-cylinder engine will make its debut in the BMW 3 Series. In keeping with the dynamic overall theme of the new BMW sports sedan, this new-generation turbocharged engine offers plenty of power and performance, responsive acceleration, powerful torque, a high rpm ceiling and low weight. The new 4-cylinder engine, which provide noticeably livelier power for maximum driving enjoyment, also come with lower fuel consumption than its predecessor.

The state-of-the-art, lively 2.0-litre engine marks a return to the popular sports sedan’s roots – it was with lightweight, high-performance 4-cylinder engines in a similar vein that the BMW 3 Series made its debut back in 1975, with the first 6-cylinder engines for this series making their appearance at the 1977 Frankfurt Motor Show. A 6-cylinder continues to top the engine line-up in the new BMW 3 Series.

The significant upgrade in power and efficiency is chiefly down to the use of BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, which combines High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft timing and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing along with twin-scroll turbocharging. On the new-generation 4-cylinder engine, this world-exclusive technology package from BMW again provides a very efficient way to extract more power from the engine, rather than taking the route of a much larger displacement and, in the process, adding to the weight and therefore to fuel consumption. This explains why the more dynamic performance and driving enjoyment does not come at the expense of higher fuel consumption and emissions.

The new BMW TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder’s displacement of 1,997 cc delivers maximum power of 180 kW/ 240 hp at 5,000 rpm while, thanks to twin-scroll turbocharging, the maximum torque of 260 lb-ft is developed at just 1,250 rpm and remains constant up to 4,800 rpm. These statistics translate to commensurately dynamic performance: the new BMW 328i accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds, on its way to an electronically governed top speed of 130 mph, 155 mph with Sport Line. The engine responds instantly when the driver demands more throttle, and the vigorous and almost linear power delivery from only slightly above idle, which continues all the way into the higher rpm range, is duly impressive.

VALVETRONIC, Double-Vanos and High Precision Direct Injection.
The combination of a high power output and a simultaneous reduction in emissions is achieved by VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-Vanos variable camshaft timing. The latest generation of the VALVETRONIC system features a faster-acting, optimized stepper motor with integrated sensor. Seamlessly variable control of intake valve lift dispenses with the need for a throttle butterfly. Instead, the air mass is controlled inside the engine, resulting in faster response. At the same time, pumping losses have been reduced to a minimum.
The excellent efficiency is also down to the High Precision Direct Injection system. Centrally positioned between the valves, solenoid injectors precisely control the supply of fuel. The fuel is injected very close to the spark plug, with a maximum injection pressure of 200 bar (2900 psi), resulting in clean and homogeneous combustion. The cooling effect of the directly injected fuel also results in a higher compression ratio than on port injection engines, bringing further efficiency improvements.

Innovative 8-speed automatic transmission: efficient power transmission and optimal ratios.
The new BMW 3 Series can be equipped with an optional high-performance
8-speed automatic transmission, which can be combined with any of the engines being presented. The additional ratios allow this state-of-the-art transmission – which is an option not currently offered by any competitors in the premium compact sports sedan segment – to combine unprecedented standards of comfortable shifting, sporty performance and efficiency. With all this going for it, the automatic transmission is fully in keeping with the overall sporty temperament of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan.

In terms of size and weight, this 8-speed unit is comparable with the 6-speed automatic transmission used in the past. A range of innovative technical features and exceptionally high internal efficiency allow this higher-performance unit, too, to combine powerful acceleration, strong mid-range sprinting and further reduced fuel consumption. For performance-minded drivers this transmission also has lots to offer, particularly since the driver can choose to play a more active role by changing gear manually, thereby releasing even more of this sporty sedan’s potential.

With its optimized control technology, the 8-speed transmission boasts extremely fast shift and reaction times and direct downshift capability. The electronic transmission controller can also alter the shift characteristics as required, to cater either for a sportier or for a more relaxed, fuel-saving driving style. Despite a larger overall spread, eight ratios mean that the spacing between them is smaller, so that the optimal ratio is available in virtually all situations. The close ratios deliver turbine-like power combined with smooth and fuel-efficient low-rpm operation. Altogether, then, as well as providing dynamic acceleration and smooth shifting, the new 8-speed automatic also allows drivers to maintain a very economical driving style. This all helps to explain why, when fitted with the 8-speed automatic transmission, the new BMW 3 Series even lower fuel consumption than models equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission.

Precision chassis engineering sets new standards: sporty handling, high agility and increased comfort.
In the sixth model generation, too, dynamism and performance are among the stand-out features of the BMW sports sedan. These qualities are underpinned by a precision-engineered chassis with four-wheel independent suspension that perfectly complements a winning formula: a longitudinally mounted engine, rear-wheel drive, balanced weight distribution and torsionally stiff body.

In the new BMW 3 Series the engineers have further improved the already outstanding handling qualities of the predecessor and its excellent agility and directional stability, while at the same time noticeably improving comfort. To achieve this, they have made extensive use of extra-lightweight chassis components, sophisticated and perfectly tailored axle kinematics and a high-precision steering system. State-of-the-art electronic control systems on the new BMW 3 Series Sedan help manage the vehicle dynamics and ensure that the combination of outstanding sporty performance and increased comfort can be enjoyed to the full and with complete peace of mind.

With friction-reduced wheel bearings and ball joints, aerodynamic improvements at the rear axle and reduced rolling-resistance tires, the whole chassis plays its part in reducing fuel consumption and thus emissions.

A wheelbase of 110.6 inches / 2,810 mm (+ 1.96in/50 mm) and a front and rear track width of 60.3 / 1,543 (+ 1.46 in / 37 mm) and 61.9 / 1,583 millimeters (+ 1.85 in/ 48 mm) respectively give the new BMW 3 Series Sedan a more road-hugging stance than its predecessor, while the weight-optimized powertrain and lightweight body design result in a perfectly balanced 50:50 weight distribution.

BMW ConnectedDrive: Intelligent integration provides greater comfort, safety and infotainment.
The BMW ConnectedDrive range of technology includes a portfolio of innovative functions – unique worldwide – which serve to ensure maximum comfort, infotainment and safety. BMW ConnectedDrive uses the intelligent link-up of the driver, car and outside world to provide useful information for the situation at hand. The technical pre-eminence and progressive character of the new BMW 3 Series is underpinned by an unmatched combination of driver assistance systems and mobility systems from BMW ConnectedDrive.

Among the most prominent technologies developed under the banner of BMW ConnectedDrive are the comfort-enhancing systems BMW Parking Assistant and Surround View. They are joined in the new BMW 3 Series Sedan by features which further increase levels of passenger comfort – such as office services, calendar and Facebook as examples.

High-functionality interface technology providing a prime example of state-of-the-art infotainment capability enables the driver and passengers to make extensive use of external mobile phones and music players inside the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. With new Bluetooth office functions from BMW ConnectedDrive, internet-based services such as weather, news etc., as well as calendar entries and text-based messages (SMS and e-mail), can be viewed in the Control Display of the iDrive operating system and read out via the Text to Speech function. In addition, passengers can access their personal music library on their smartphone or music player inside the car. Their playlists, stored song titles and relevant album cover artwork are then displayed on the on-board monitor. The BMW Connected app allows full in-car use of web radio and calendar functions in combination with the Apple iPhone. In addition to web radio music streaming serves such as Pandora and MOG can be accessed safely and conveniently through the iDrive controller and screen.

The constantly expanding number of driver assistance systems from BMW ConnectedDrive provide added safety and assurance on the road. In a new development in this premium class, the new BMW 3 Series Sedan will be available with the new-generation full-color Head-Up Display. Key driving information is projected – in sharp resolution – onto the windshield so it appears directly in the driver’s field of view. Safety is given a further boost by the availability of the Active Blind Spot Detection System and Lane Departure Warning System including Collision Warning. This technology warns the driver of a possible collision during a lane change maneuver or if the car strays unintentionally out of its lane. Meanwhile, the Advanced Collision Notification function help occupants to limit the consequences of an crash, should the worst come to the worst.

Head-Up Display with full-color capability.
The new-generation Head-Up Display now delivers even greater display quality, functionality and flexibility. The symbols projected onto the windshield are displayed in sharp resolution in the driver’s direct field of vision. All of which allows drivers to view all of the information in this ergonomically excellent position without having to divert their gaze from the road ahead. A full range of colors are used to reproduce common road sign symbols as accurately as possible through the display graphics. Depending on vehicle specification, the car’s speed, cruise control setting, navigation instructions and alerts from the Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning systems will be displayed on the display. Even direction indicators and Check/Control messages can now be displayed, as well as a wide range of information selected personally by the driver. The intensity of the projections adapts automatically to the light conditions, and therefore follows the illumination of the cockpit dials. Added to which, the precise positioning of the projections on the windshield can be adjusted easily using the iDrive Controller. The variety of driver assistance systems available for the BMW 3 Series Sedan increases the amount of information that can be shown in the Head-Up Display to a whole new level.

Active Blind Spot Detection System monitors vehicles following behind.
Inattentiveness or misjudgment of the distance and speed of a vehicle approaching from behind can lead the driver into a critical situation when changing lanes. The optional Active Blind Spot Detection System warns BMW 3 Series Sedan drivers of the potential danger of such an overtaking maneuver. The system uses a pair of rear-mounted radar sensors to monitor traffic in the adjacent lanes, from the blind spot to a distance of approximately 60 meters (200 ft.) behind the car. This information, indicated to the driver before he actually changes lanes, allows him to prepare for a lane change maneuver with confidence and to avoid critical situations from the outset. If other road users are approaching the car in an adjacent lane or moving through the driver’s blind spot behind and to the side of the car, a yellow triangle symbol in the housing of the driver’s side exterior mirror gives a discreet warning of possible danger. If the driver then still goes ahead and activates the direction indicator, announcing an intention to pull in or out, the LED symbol starts to flash. A further warning is provided in the form of a discreet but unmistakable vibration of the steering wheel rim.

Camera monitoring: Lane Departure Warning System and Collision Warning.
The Lane Departure Warning System available for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan is activated at speeds above 70 km/h (43 mph) and warns the driver if he unintentionally strays out of his lane. The system comprises a windshield-mounted camera in the rear-view mirror area, a data comparison unit and a signal generator which – as with the Active Blind Spot Detection System – causes the steering wheel to vibrate. The Lane Departure Warning System is speed-sensitive. At high speeds, the system reacts at a suitably early stage if the car is getting close to the lane markings. The camera tracks the lane markings on at least one side of the car, and the control unit uses image processing to calculate the position of the car in relation to the markings. The camera focuses some 50 meters (164 ft.) ahead of the car and is also active through corners and on narrow roads. Indeed, the system even works in the dark as soon as the headlights have been switched on. The driver can therefore count on its services in a wide range of everyday driving scenarios. The system does not give a warning if the driver has signaled an intention to change lanes or turn off by switching on the direction indicator. BMW ConnectedDrive uses a high-tech multifunctional camera, mounted on the rear-view mirror, to initiate a number of different driver assistance systems. With the new BMW 3 Series Sedan, BMW will become the first premium manufacturer to use such a camera for monitoring traffic on the road ahead. The image processing system continuously scans the scene on the road and gives an audible warning if it identifies a potential collision risk. If the driver draws too close to the vehicle in front, the system produces an acute audible warning and a visual signal appears in the instrument cluster or the optional Head-Up Display, if specified. At speeds upwards of 50 km/h (30 mph), the brake system is primed and the activation threshold of the hydraulic Brake Assist system is lowered. These measures, which are activated simultaneously with the visual and audible warnings, are designed to help the driver react effectively in an emergency. There is no automatic braking intervention. The sensitivity of the automatic Collision Warning system can be individually configured by the driver through several stages.

If the worst comes to the worst: BMW Assist enhanced Automatic Collision Notification with automatic vehicle location.
In the event of an accident in the new BMW 3 Series, the enhanced Automatic Collision Notification system from BMW ConnectedDrive allows the emergency services to receive detailed information on the type of collision and the likelihood trauma level injuries before arriving at the scene of the accident. That allows first responders to prepare the appropriate medical care in advance for those involved in the crash. The precise position of the car and vehicle type are specified, and all the data gathered by sensors in the car is forwarded. The information provides indications as to the nature and severity of the collision, while the deployment of the car’s restraint systems gives the emergency services an idea of the number of injured people and allows frontal, rear, side or multiple collisions to be identified and differentiated. This is possible thanks to an advanced algorithm developed in partnership with the William Lehmann Trauma Center in Miami, Florida that used transmitted vehicle data to estimate the likelihood of severe injuries as a result of a crash. As well as automatic activation, the system also allows the driver or front passenger to trigger the Emergency Call manually and to be connected with the BMW call center without delay.

Intelligent use of advanced light technology.
The optional High-Beam Assistant for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan provides enhanced safety at night. The system automatically switches high beam on and off, as conditions require, ensuring that the driver always has optimal visibility without having to switch manually between high and low beam. Images recorded by the camera integrated into the rear-view mirror allow the system to identify vehicles travelling up to around 400 meters (approx. ¼ mile) in front. Oncoming traffic is picked up when it is still around 1,000 meters (just under ¾ mile) away, and the system also switches to low beam if ambient lighting is bright enough.

The optional Adaptive Xenon headlights provide illumination follows the curves of the road, turn with the steering angle and the speed of the car. The cornering light function integrated into the foglamps is triggered when the driver switches on the indicator and turns the steering wheel (at up to 65 km/h /40 mph). Every time the driver turns, an additional beam of light provides significantly improved visibility in the area immediately around the car.

Rear view camera and Surround View deliver a perfect overview.
A rear view camera is also available for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan as an extension of the Park Distance Control (PDC) system. PDC uses sensors in the bumpers to detect the distance to obstacles in front of and behind the car. The camera is located in a protected position in the license plate recess of the trunk lid and sends images with optimized color and perspective to the cockpit monitor. Interactive lane markings signal the room available for the parking maneuver and the smallest possible turning circle.

Making its debut in the BMW 3 Series Sedan, the Top View system provides an even more extensive overview of the car. This system complements the rear view camera and PDC sensors, and works using two cameras in the exterior mirrors. The data collected on the car and its surrounding area is processed by a central computer, which generates an overall image. This is then displayed on the on-board monitor, presenting a bird’s-eye view of the car and the area around it, and enabling the driver to carry out precise maneuvers in tight spaces.

If the car is moving at under 20 km/h (12 mph), the driver can – at the touch of a button – also choose to activate only the Side View function of Top View. Side View uses two cameras integrated in the sides of the front bumper to monitor traffic crossing in front of the vehicle. These images are also relayed to the cockpit, where they not only act as a maneuvering aid but, above all, give the driver an early idea of what is happening on the road to the left and right of the car when pulling out from narrow and concealed exits or junctions.

BMW Parking Assistant takes charge of maneuvering into parking spaces.
The BMW Parking Assistant is another comfort-enhancing driver assistance system from BMW ConnectedDrive to be included in the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. The new system helps the driver to maneuver safely and comfortably into parking spaces positioned parallel to the direction of travel. BMW Parking Assistant uses ultrasound sensors integrated into the side indicator surrounds to help the driver search for suitable parking spaces. With the car travelling at no more than 36 km/h (22 mph), these sensors permanently measure the length and breadth of parking spaces at the edge of the road and on roadside verges. BMW Parking Assistant searches for spaces at least 1.20 meters (around 4 ft.) longer than the car itself. With the system activated, the driver is alerted to suitable spaces as he passes them. When the system is switched off, this measuring process takes place in the background; only when the driver draws to a halt and engages reverse gear is the parking space flagged up on the on-board monitor using a suitable symbol. In both cases, drivers can confirm they want to use BMW Parking Assistant with a push of the iDrive Controller. During the parking process all they have to do is operate the accelerator and brake pedal and keep an eye on the area around the car; the Parking Assistant takes care of the steering wheel movements required to carry out a precise reverse parking maneuver. Drivers are given instructions to guide them through the parking process. Audible and visual alerts from PDC, the rear view camera or the newly introduced Surround View system help to maintain the required distance to other vehicles or obstacles in the chosen parking space.

Innovative trunk access makes life a little easier.
BMW ConnectedDrive has come up with another new and intelligent solution that makes BMW cars even easier to use. The hands-free trunk lid opening function – available for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan in conjunction with Comfort Access – is a first in the premium class. Standing behind the car, customers can prompt the trunk to open with just a short movement of their foot under the center of the rear bumper, i.e. without using their hands. The trunk then automatically unlocks and swings open by spring force. The vehicle is fitted with sensors placed at different heights in the rear bumper trim, which are able to identify a person standing behind the vehicle. The sensors can identify the foot “command” by monitoring the area of the leg between the shin and the tip of the foot. They then send a signal containing special algorithms to the on-board computer. Access is only authorized, however, if the system simultaneously identifies the Comfort Access control unit (the key), which the person must be carrying with them. The trunk lid is then unlocked and raised automatically, without hand contact. Key authorization provides the safeguard ensuring correct operation at all times.

Body and safety: The safest BMW 3 Series yet.
The new BMW 3 Series offers its passengers exceptional active and passive safety. Judicious selection of materials, a high-strength structure and an intelligent lightweight design concept allow the body to meet the most exacting standards, and it teams up with highly efficient restraint systems to provide maximum occupant protection. At the same time, the lightweight construction of the new BMW 3 Series makes a significant contribution to the efficiency and agility of the new sports sedan. In addition, an extensive package of active safety components help the driver to avoid accidents or, if a collision is unavoidable, to minimize its consequences. The same goes for the optimized pedestrian protection systems. All in all, the flawlessly assembled overall concept of the new BMW 3 Series makes it an incredibly impressive proposition – not least in terms of safety.

High-strength body structure with extremely stiff passenger cell.
The body of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan meets the highest standards across the board. Large and extremely durable supporting structures and the intelligent use of high and ultra-high-tensile multi-phase steels maximize the strength of the safety passenger cell, while keeping weight low. Precisely calculated load paths ensure that impact energy is spread around the passenger cell to other areas of the body such as the floor structure, side members, front bulkhead and roof, and absorbed by defined deformation zones of the front and rear. In the event of a side-on collision, reinforced structures in the B-pillar and sills, high-strength side impact members in the doors and sturdy seat cross-members protect the occupants from injury. With its strengthened pillars and roof members, the passenger cell also provides a secure survival area for the occupants if the car rolls over. The body of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan is over 10% more rigid than its predecessor – good news for drivers who like to see vibrations suppressed and steering precision nurtured.

Individual protection at every seat.
The exemplary crash responses of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan body also provide the best possible basis for the optimum design and set-up of the car’s restraint systems. The sports sedan is equipped as standard with front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus head airbags for both rows of seats. Responding to the nature and severity of the impact, the integrated safety electronics ensure that only those airbags that are able to provide effective protection are deployed at the optimum time. Those airbags that are not required remain unused – and therefore ready to spring into action should there be a second collision. All seats are fitted with three-point inertia-reel seat belts, and the driver and front passenger also have belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters. Also part of standard specification are ISOFIX child seat attachment points for the rear seats.

Improved pedestrian protection.
The front of the new BMW 3 Series features various pedestrian protection systems. An impact absorber is located between the bumper supports and bumper trim, reducing leg injuries, while the hood is built to include deformation elements, which absorb impact energy. These optimized measures help to reduce the risk of injury and mitigate the consequences of an accident. A host of active safety systems reduce the risk of accidents.

A selection of electronic assistance systems make an active contribution to driving safety in the new BMW 3 Series, helping drivers to avoid collisions in the first place. The functions of the main assistance systems have already been described in the “BMW ConnectedDrive” chapter, but the stand-out features include the, daytime running lights, Adaptive Headlights with variable light distribution and anti-dazzle High-Beam Assistant, dynamic brake lights, a rear view camera, the Lane Departure Warning System including Collision Warning, the Lane Change Warning System and Speed Limit Info.